Governor Quinn Seeks Delegates for Summer Science Education Camp

CHICAGO – January 1, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn is calling on graduating high school seniors to apply for an opportunity to attend the National Youth Science Camp (NYSC) in West Virginia this summer.

Students from across Illinois are encouraged to apply for a full scholarship to the month-long NYSC program. Two students will be selected as official Illinois delegates, allowing them to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, regardless of financial status.

“I want to encourage young people to learn the value of education – and particularly the sciences – not just during their time in school, but all throughout their lives,” said Governor Quinn. “A good education is the foundation for a good job, and good jobs are the foundation of a productive, healthy and vibrant society.”

The NYSC program gathers outstanding science students from all 50 states to participate in a month-long academic retreat. Lectures and hands-on research projects are presented by scientists from a wide variety of scientific fields. Delegates are challenged to explore new areas in the biological and physical sciences, art, and music with resident staff members. Delegates also present seminars covering their own areas of research and interest.

The National Youth Science Camp was first held in 1963, established in the Monongahela National Forest in the mountains of West Virginia. With support from the National Youth Science Foundation, the State of West Virginia and corporate sponsors, each Governor can select two graduating high school students for an all-expenses paid scholarship to attend the NYSC.

In Illinois, representatives from the Governor’s Office and the Illinois State Board of Education will review applications from high school students who: are eligible to graduate before June 30, 2011; have shown exceptional achievement in the math or science fields; have shown leadership in school and community activities; have demonstrated skills outside of the sciences and academic pursuits and those who have demonstrated a curiosity and eagerness to explore many and varied topics.

Students who would like to be considered for this opportunity should complete the application and return it to: Illinois State Board of Education, Attn: Gil Downey, NYSC Selection Coordinator, 100 North First Street, C-215, Springfield, Illinois 62777-0001 or via email at gov.youthsciencecamp@illinois.gov. More information about the camp and electronic copies of the application can be found at http://www.nysc.org. For a paper copy of the application, or questions, please call 217-557-7323.

Applications are due January 28, 2011. The camp will run Thursday, June 30 through Sunday, July 24, 2011.